Firearm Offences

Weapon laws in Canada cover the possession of unlicensed or unlawful firearms/restricted weapons,or, the possession of licensed firearms in inappropriate contexts. They also cover illegal trafficking, assembly and exportation.

Additionally, the use of a firearm or other weapon while committing another indictable offence (such as robbery or sexual assault) can worsen the charges significantly.

If you have questions about firearm offences or any related charges, call Rishi Gill at 604.899.1436. Your initial consultation with Rishi is no charge and includes a review of your case, possible defences and courses of action. When you call, you will speak to Rishi Gill directly (not a paralegal or assistant), so you can be assured that the counsel you receive will be timely and discrete.

What’s the law on firearms and weapons in Canada?

Firearm and weapon offences are charged under sections 84–117 of the Criminal Code of Canada.

Firearms in Canada fall into three classes: non-restricted, restricted, and prohibited. Roughly speaking, non-restricted firearms include rifles, shotguns and air guns with a length of 660mm or greater (these tend to be used in hunting); restricted firearms cover most handguns and AR-15 rifles; and prohibited firearms include all automatic and semi-automatic firearms. One needs a license to purchase and possess restricted firearms. It is not legally possible to acquire new prohibited firearms in Canada, but owners who possessed the weapons before they were prohibited are allowed to keep them.

What happens if I get convicted of a firearm offence?

Simple possession of a restricted firearm can carry a maximum of a 1 year jail term or a $5,000 fine. If there is reason to believe that you had dangerous intentions, or if children or drugs are found nearby, the charges can be much worse.

Trafficking offences carry a minimum of 3 years in jail for a first-offence, to a maximum of 10 years.

Likewise, other offences become significantly more serious if committed with a weapon.

What should I do if I’m charged with a firearm offence? Do I need a lawyer?

In all cases, you should consult with experienced legal counsel. A criminal defence lawyer can be instrumental in getting charges reduced or dropped. Call Rishi Gill at 604.899.1436 for a no charge consultation today.

Testimonials

“A conviction would have completely changed my life. I wouldn’t be able to travel freely for work and it would have eliminated anything involving any type of background check. When the charges were dropped I felt extremely appreciative and fortunate. I felt as though I had dodged a bullet and had been given the opportunity to make things better and learn from the situation.”

Robert P. Charged with AssaultCharges Dropped

“When I was first charged I was stressed out and trying to get a grip on things. When I met with Rishi I knew I didn’t have to worry so much. He took my case and I immediately felt that things were going to get done and be dealt with. He took charge of the situation and made me feel secure and confident.”

Richard S.Charged with Firearms OffenceCharges dropped

“When the case was dealt with I had a life again. If I was convicted of what I was first charged with I would have lost my house and job – everything I had tried to build for myself. Rishi is very well respected in my house and I would refer anyone I knew to be in trouble to him. I think he is the best.”

Paul M.Charged with Drug OffencePlead guilty to less serious offence with no jail

“Having a sexual assault charge to deal with was terrifying. The process was scary and I had a lot of questions. Rishi was always to the point. In that type of situation I didn’t need filler. He has always been straightforward. I immediately got the feeling he wanted to know about my case.”

Keith P.Charged with Sexual Assault

“I thought I was done for when I first learned of the charges. I loved how Rishi dealt with the problem. He never stopped amazing me. If I had been convicted of the crimes I would have had no life at all. I wouldn’t be able to see my son grow up.”

Jeremy C.Charged with Major Crimes offencesCharges dropped

“At the time I was charged I was completely overwhelmed. I didn’t know which way to go. Rishi told me what I needed to do and solved things. He was very proficient and very direct. It was exactly what I needed at the time. He helped me out so much.”

Lorna. M Charged with Major CrimePlead guilty to Obstruction of Justice

“At the time I was first charged with assaulting my boyfriend I felt overwhelmed, alone, and scared. I had no idea what to do. Rishi took charge of everything. I never had to come to court. It took the weight off my shoulders and allowed me to get on with my life.”

Jessica W.Charged with AssaultCharges dropped

“When I was first charged I felt helpless and hopeless. Rishi responded directly to my call right away. My first meeting with him really made me feel confident. He took charge of my case. I feel he has excellent skills and very good experience as a lawyer. I would definitely recommend him to others.”

Michael J.Charged with Drug Offence

“At the time I was arrested and then charged I felt so uneasy because I had no clue what to do. I was worried because I could not fix the situation on my own. Rishi put things in perspective for me and put together a plan. He explained everything to me and took charge. I was able to concentrate on my work and personal life after I hired him.”

Melanie W. Charged with ShopliftingCharges Dropped

“I was scared and didn’t know what was going to happen when I was arrested. I felt like an idiot. Rishi dealt with my problem in the most professional manner possible. He did a great job and always told me the truth. He treated me intelligently and with respect.”

Teresa M.Charged with Drug OffenceCharge dropped

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